Question : NetBIOS over TCP/IP  needed for Windows XP communications?

I have two Windows XP Pro machines, both with all the updates. Both computers are connected to the same LinkSys wired router. Both computers are running ZoneAlarm. Both computers have NetBIOS over TCP/IP disabled. Each computer can ping the other computer. However, neither computer finds the other one when using My Network Places in Windows Explorer.

When I change both computers to have NetBIOS over TCP/IP enabled, they CAN find the other one when using My Network Places in Windows Explorer.

My understanding was NetBIOS over TCP/IP was NOT needed to communicate with another Windows XP computer.

Why is the deal with this?  Do I some network settings set wrong?

Many thanks in advance,
Robert

Answer : NetBIOS over TCP/IP  needed for Windows XP communications?

NetBT is not required for computers running Windows 2000, Windows XP, or Windows Server 2003 unless you use NetBIOS applications on your network, such as the Computer Browser service. The Computer Browser service maintains the list of computers in the Microsoft Windows Network window of My Network Places. Unlike versions of Windows prior to Windows 2000, file and printer sharing with Windows 2000, Windows XP, or Windows Server 2003 can operate without the use of NetBT.

courtesy of: http://www.microsoft.com/technet/network/evaluate/technol/tcpipfund/tcpipfund_ch11.mspx